Bows and Ribbons in Fashion: From Accessories to Clothing

White satin bows sitting atop ponytails, thin ribbons tied around handbag straps, and skirt hems adorned with small bows. You’re looking at the “coquette” aesthetic, the latest fashion trend to hit the 2020s. 

The rise of bows and ribbons offers extensive customisation options for those who make their own clothing. From beginner projects to expert tailoring, this blog will provide inspiration for adding bows and ribbons to homemade garments and accessories. 

Hair Bows and Ribbons

Hair bows make a sweet and simple addition to any outfit. Oversized bows on half-up, half-down hairdos have made a comeback—think Ariel’s big blue bow from The Little Mermaid (1989). 

Ribbon bows can also be glued to hair clips, hair ties, or headbands for quick attachment to your hair. Popular fabric options for these style choices are velvet, satin, grosgrain, and organza.

Decorative Ribbons in Homemade Clothing

Fashion labels have embraced ribbon bows in both simplistic and extravagant ways. From dainty bows sewn along hemlines to lavish bows plastered across the entire garment, these details add a playful touch to each piece. 

Ribbons are also used as clothing trim. In addition to using straight ribbons for stripes, unique options like ric rac also add visual interest to your garment. When sewn along the edges of your clothes, it can accentuate the hem and create a striking effect.

For frilly undergarments such as lingerie, ribbons such as stretch mousseline frill or stretch frivole can add a delicate look while providing elasticity for a perfect fit.

Functional Ribbons in Homemade Clothing

Ribbons can be functional as well as decorative. Basic ideas include bow straps for tops and dresses, a sturdy ribbon to cinch the waist of tie-back garments, or a grosgrain waist stay to support the weight of heavy or strapless dresses.

Additionally, narrow ribbons are used as lacing for corsets or other clothing with lace-up details. These are commonly seen in mediaeval costumes at renaissance fairs, for example, flowy long-sleeve shirts with front lacing. 

At Cherry Ribbon, we also offer cord ribbons that can be used as drawstrings to create ruching on dresses, skirts, or tops. These ripples are often added by the thighs or waistline to create a form-fitting silhouette. 

Get Clean Edges with Ribbons

Ribbons are a good alternative to bias tape when binding relatively straight edges. The sealed edges—excluding the cut ends—remove the time and hassle usually involved in folding bias tape. Grosgrain ribbon is recommended for durability as satin ribbons may fray after a few washes. 

Ribbons can also be used for piping, which is sewn into seams to define the edges of garments or bags. At Cherry Ribbon, our ready-made piping will save you time and result in even style lines.

Revamp Old Clothing

The methods above can also be used to breathe new life into old clothes. Add a ribbon bow or two onto a forgotten jumper and it becomes a refreshed, trendy piece. 

Additionally, clothing that has become too big or small can be adjusted by sewing in a lace-up back. Large clothes can be cinched in by criss-crossed ribbons, and snug clothes can be loosened due to the added space in the back.

Ribbon-Adorned Bags

Ribbons can dress up more than just clothes. They can be attached to handbag straps as a basic bow, weaved through bag chain straps, or wrapped around top handles to add a pop of colour.

Creative crocheters have also popularised ribbon handbags—homemade bags crocheted entirely out of ribbon. Double-sided satin ribbon is a popular choice for this craft, as the shine on both sides allows for twisting during the crocheting process while still retaining a glossy look.

Customise Footwear with Ribbons

Footwear can also be accessorised with ribbons. A strappy heel can be created by tying a ribbon up and around the ankle. For a playful touch, finish it off with a bow made of elegant sheer organza, rich velvet, or timeless satin.

Furthermore, ribbons can also add a unique look to sneakers and boots. Add aglets for easy lacing, and you now have ribbon shoelaces to spruce up your footwear.

Take a Bow

With bows and ribbons spilling into adult fashion, sewing inspiration can be found everywhere. When creating your pieces, just remember to seal the ribbon ends to prevent fraying!

At Cherry Ribbon, we offer a large range of ribbons suitable for a variety of sewing projects. Have a browse through our website and contact us at sales@amacdougall.com.au for any enquiries.